Masters of kitchen
There’s something undeniably comforting about pulling off the highway, stepping into Cracker Barrel, and being greeted by the scent of sizzling bacon, buttery biscuits, and Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Casserole bubbling in cheese. It’s a taste of home—whether you’re on a road trip or craving a hearty Southern-style breakfast.
And if there’s one dish that always hits the spot, it’s the Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Casserole. Rich, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy, this side dish is more than just a plate filler—it’s a fan favorite that practically steals the show.
The best part? You don’t need to head to the restaurant to enjoy it. With just a few everyday ingredients and a casserole dish, you can recreate that crave-worthy comfort food right at home—no rocking chair required. Whether you’re planning a family brunch, a potluck dish, or a cozy dinner side, this recipe is about to become a go-to.
What Is Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Casserole?
At its heart, Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Casserole is a warm, creamy blend of shredded hash browns, tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, and a touch of onion—all baked together with cream of chicken soup until perfectly golden and bubbling around the edges.
Served as a side on Cracker Barrel’s breakfast and dinner menus, it quickly gained a loyal following for its ultra-satisfying texture—crispy on top, gooey in the middle—and its ability to complement just about any meal.
Its popularity isn’t just about flavor. It’s comfort food in its purest form. This dish takes simple pantry staples and turns them into something soothing and indulgent. No frills. No fuss. Just good old-fashioned deliciousness.
Whether you’ve tried it in the restaurant or heard rave reviews from friends, there’s a reason people search for copycat versions year-round—it hits all the right notes of cozy and satisfying.
What Makes This Hash Browns Casserole So Special?
There are dozens of casserole recipes out there, but few have achieved cult status like Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole—and that’s for good reason.
First, there’s the texture: a creamy center loaded with cheese, tender hash browns, and the occasional bite of onion, all topped with a slightly crispy, golden layer that forms naturally as it bakes. It’s that contrast—gooey meets crunchy—that keeps you going back for bite after bite.
It also works with practically everything. This dish fits just as easily on a breakfast table next to eggs and sausage as it does beside roast chicken or ham at dinner. It’s the kind of universal side dish that disappears fast no matter the occasion.
Pro Tip: Let the casserole sit for 10–15 minutes after baking. This allows it to firm up slightly and makes serving much easier (and neater).
Beyond flavor, it taps into something deeper—nostalgia. Whether you associate it with road trip breakfasts or lazy Sunday mornings, it’s tied to memories. That’s why the internet is full of copycat recipes, fan recreations, and restaurant remakes. The Cracker Barrel brand has built a comfort food empire—and this casserole is one of its shining stars.
Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need
One of the best things about this casserole? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. It’s built on simple pantry and freezer staples, which makes it both affordable and convenient.
Here’s what you’ll need:
-
Frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
-
Shredded cheddar cheese – sharp works best
-
Sour cream – for that creamy tang
-
Cream of chicken soup – classic binding element
-
Chopped onion – adds depth and sweetness
-
Salt, pepper, and butter – for seasoning and richness
Optional add-ins you can try:
-
Cooked crumbled bacon
-
Chopped green onions
-
Diced jalapeños for a spicy twist
What makes this ingredient list special is how unpretentious it is. No exotic items, no complicated prep—just a few familiar foods transformed into something magical. The simplicity is what allows the flavor of each ingredient to shine.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Casserole – Step-by-Step
Making this dish is as easy as mix, pour, bake—and wait for your kitchen to smell amazing.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This size ensures the casserole cooks evenly and gets those lovely golden edges.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
-
Thawed shredded hash browns
-
Shredded cheddar cheese
-
Sour cream
-
Chopped onions
-
Cream of chicken soup
-
Melted butter
-
A pinch of salt and pepper
Stir until everything is well mixed. You want that creamy goodness to coat every shred of potato.
Step 3: Pour and Spread
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to gently press it down for a smooth top. This helps create that iconic golden finish as it bakes.
Step 4: Bake
Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and lightly browned. The edges should be golden and slightly crispy.
Optional: For an even crispier top, switch to the broiler during the last 2–3 minutes—but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the cheesy mixture to settle and makes it easier to cut clean portions.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it—just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Tasty Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can tailor it to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you already have on hand.
-
Meaty version: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or browned sausage for a hearty twist that turns this side dish into a complete meal.
-
Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even a spoonful of chipotle in adobo to give the casserole some kick.
Advertisement -
Vegetarian twist: Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom or a homemade veggie béchamel. Fold in sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
-
Breakfast casserole upgrade: Crack 4–6 eggs into the mixture before baking. This turns it into a protein-packed breakfast bake that’s great for brunch.
-
Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free condensed soup, or make a quick white sauce from butter, milk, and cornstarch. Make sure all seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free.
Pro Tip: No matter which variation you choose, keep the ratio of wet-to-dry ingredients balanced for that signature creamy texture.
What to Serve With Hash Browns Casserole
This casserole plays well with just about everything, making it a reliable crowd-pleaser whether you’re planning breakfast, dinner, or a holiday meal.
For breakfast or brunch:
-
Scrambled or fried eggs
-
Sausage patties or links
-
A fresh fruit salad or citrus slices to balance the richness
As a dinner side:
-
Roast chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf
-
Steamed or roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
-
Classic coleslaw or a crisp green salad for freshness
Holiday meal pairing:
-
It’s a perfect match with baked ham, roast turkey, or stuffed bell peppers. Add it to your Thanksgiving or Easter menu for a comforting twist.
Drink pairing tip: Try it with sweet tea, black coffee, or a savory brunch cocktail like a Bloody Mary for a balanced meal.
How to Make Ahead and Store It
This casserole is ideal for meal prep, holidays, or when you want something delicious without last-minute stress.
Make-ahead instructions:
-
Mix and assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate unbaked.
-
When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as usual.
Leftovers:
-
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
-
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that crispy top.
Freezing tips:
-
Assemble the unbaked casserole, wrap tightly with plastic and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
-
To cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for make-ahead brunches, busy weekdays, or last-minute guests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple casserole like this can go wrong if you miss a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for best results:
-
Overbaking: Too much time in the oven will dry it out. Remove it once it’s bubbly and golden.
-
Undermixing: Make sure everything is well combined. If not, you might end up with bland bites or unmelted cheese pockets.
-
Using fresh potatoes: Freshly grated potatoes release water and can affect texture. Frozen hash browns are key to keeping it consistent.
-
Skipping resting time: Let the casserole rest after baking! This helps it set and enhances the flavor.
Pro Tip: Don’t overdo the salt. Pre-packaged soup and cheese already add plenty of seasoning. Taste before adding extra.
When you avoid these pitfalls, you’re rewarded with a creamy, flavorful casserole that’s just like the real deal—if not better.
FAQs
Can I make this without cream of chicken soup?
Yes! You can swap in cream of mushroom or even make a quick white sauce with butter, milk, and flour or cornstarch. This is also a good move for vegetarian or gluten-free versions.
Can you make Cracker Barrel hash browns casserole in a crockpot?
Absolutely. Mix everything and cook on low for 3–4 hours, or high for 1.5–2 hours, uncovered for the last 30 minutes to help it set.
How long do leftovers last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
Can I use fresh shredded potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
You can, but you’ll need to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to avoid a watery casserole. Frozen hash browns are more reliable for the right consistency.
Can I freeze Cracker Barrel hash browns casserole?
Yes! For best results, freeze it unbaked. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Is there a low-fat version of this recipe?
You can use light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and a low-fat condensed soup. Just note that the texture might be a little less rich—but still delicious!
Final Thoughts: Bringing the Comfort of Cracker Barrel Home
Cracker Barrel’s Hash Browns Casserole isn’t just a side dish—it’s a little slice of comfort that brings people together. It’s warm, hearty, and flexible enough to fit any occasion—from a quiet weekend brunch to a holiday buffet.
What makes it truly special is how easy it is to make your own version at home. Whether you go classic, spicy, meaty, or meatless, the result is always satisfying.
So grab that baking dish and dig in—because this casserole isn’t just food.
It’s like a hug on a plate.
Cracker Barrel Hash Browns Casserole
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 30 oz bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- Cooked bacon or diced ham
- Chopped green onions
- Diced jalapeños for heat
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together hash browns, cheese, sour cream, soup, onions, butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- For Extra Crispiness: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes of baking, watching closely.
- You can substitute cream of chicken with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version.
Nutrition
